Averaging just 0.71 points per game in 2016, the worst record of all 92 professional clubs in England, is it possible to put a positive spin on a calendar year's worth of poor form?
Is form across a calendar year even a fair way to judge a manager? These are questions Palace fans have been asking in recent weeks, in light of that chastening statistic and the critical headlines regarding Alan Pardew.
The manager's argument will likely be that he has tried to address the weaknesses of last season -- accountable for so much of that calendar year statistic -- by making quality additions to his squad and changing how his side play.